Bharat played three seasons in the Pro Kabaddi League with the Bengaluru Bulls. The great raider caught the imagination of all Kabaddi fans when he scored 279 raid points in PKL Season 9.

New Delhi: The Pro Kabaddi League is on the verge of starting its new decade with its eleventh season this year. However, before the new decade begins, PKL will be bringing to life the stories behind some of the league's young stars through the Rise of a Star series. Bharat, who played three PKL seasons with Bengaluru Bulls, is the first star in the series.

Brilliant raider Bharat captured the imagination of all Kabaddi fans as he scored 279 raid points for Bengaluru Bulls in Pro Kabaddi League Season 9. With his stellar performance in the ninth season, Bharath has been tipped to become the next big star. Pro Kabaddi League for many years to come.

Asked how he feels after hearing praise from the Kabaddi fraternity, Bharath said, “I feel really proud to hear good things said about me. I got a lot of love while in Pro Kabaddi League. I don't take too much pressure. I just try to give my best on the mat and let the results take care of themselves.”

The 23-year-old has played three seasons of the Pro Kabaddi League, but will be participating in the Pro Kabaddi League auction for the first time on August 15-16, 2024. Speaking about it, Rader said, “I am very excited about the PKL auction as this is the first time I have put my name in the auction. Bengaluru Bulls picked me through the NYP program in 2021 and hence I never participated in the auction.

“Besides, it is really special for me that PKL is being organized on Independence Day as I am part of the Indian Navy. I am very proud that I serve the country through the Navy and that I have the opportunity to serve my country,” he said.

Bharat entered the kabaddi scene by playing kabaddi in his village and later in local tournaments. His top consistency in kabaddi tournaments in Haryana helped him to get a place in the biggest kabaddi league in the world. “I started playing kabaddi in my village. I played a lot of local tournaments and that's where I was spotted by Bengaluru Bulls. The team selected me based on my performance in local competitions in Haryana.”

Asked about the importance of PKL for India and its kabaddi players, Rader said, “PKL has given me everything. It has given me name, fame and financial security. This league has changed the lives of many players. PKL has also boosted the kabaddi craze a lot. Many children have started playing Kabaddi after watching PKL on TV.